Warringine Wetlands, Hastings

Hastings Marina is the starting point for this walk, the historic boat shed and colourful fishing boats are a nice sight to begin your visit. 

The walk starts near Herring St, following the  Westernport Bay Trail, as it crosses Mullet St and runs adjacent to Salmon St. 

There’s something fishy going on here….

 

 

The track changes name to Bittern Coastal Wetlands Walk as the wooden boardwalk snakes its way across the wetlands, home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals and reptiles.

The 4km walk takes you all the way to Jacks Beach and returns the same way, via the 4 sections of the area; wetlands, woodlands, coastal and creek. 

Sunshine and fresh salty air – the perfect accompaniment for this walk.

https://www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/Parks-Reserves/Parks-Recreation/Warringine-Park

Coolart Homestead and Wetlands, Somers

A Sunday afternoon visit to see our happy camper kid at nearby Somers Camp gave us the opportunity to spend some time exploring the Coolart property down the road. 

 

The Victorian mansion is closed from time to time for renovations, but worth a look inside if it happens to be open on the day of your visit. Wrap around verandah, grand staircase, mosaic tiled floors, leadlight windows and original furniture are all cared for by a volunteer group, Friends of Coolart.

If the homestead is closed, there’s plenty to see around the outbuildings and gardens of the mansion.

Wetlands and woodlands trails criss cross the property and a bird hide by a lake is good for spotting some of the hundreds of bird species in the area.

A wander around the grounds can take a couple of hours. There's plenty of spots to take a rest and just sit back and enjoy the tranquil setting.

The property is free to visit, but donations are welcomed by the Friends of Coolart. 

Friends of Coolart